Common Fireweed
Senecio vulgaris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
TN
Pollinators
bees, flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common fireweed is a small annual wildflower that grows 6-24 inches tall with inconspicuous flowers that bloom from spring through fall. This native plant prefers partial shade and moderate moisture, making it suitable for understory areas. Despite its name, it produces small yellow flowers rather than showy blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Fireweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Often considered a weed due to common name and appearance
- Inconspicuous flowers may look unkempt
- Annual nature creates seasonal bare spots
Wildlife value
The long blooming period from March through September provides nectar for bees, flies, and beetles throughout the growing season.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Common Fireweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.